In News:

PM Modi receives Nigeria’s second-highest national award.

Key Events and Achievements

• Award Conferred:
  • Award Name: Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).
  • Significance: Nigeria’s second-highest national award, conferred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • Historical Context: Modi becomes the second foreign dignitary to receive this award, after Queen Elizabeth in 1969.

Strategic and Developmental Ties Between India and Nigeria

• First Visit in 17 Years: Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian PM to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the significance of strengthening bilateral ties.
• Economic Cooperation:
  • Over 200 Indian companies have invested around $27 billion in Nigeria across key sectors, making India a major economic partner.
  • India has provided $100 million in development assistance through concessional loans and is actively involved in capacity-building training programs in Nigeria.
• MoUs Signed:
  • Three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed in the fields of:
    • Cultural Exchange.
    • Customs Cooperation.
    • Survey Cooperation.
• Relief Aid: Modi announced the dispatch of 20 tonnes of relief supplies to help Nigeria recover from the devastating floods that affected the country last month.

Diplomatic Discussions and Initiatives

• Strategic Partnership: Modi described the India-Nigeria partnership as one with immense potential in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, and education.
• Indian Expatriate Community: Modi acknowledged the 60,000-strong Indian diaspora in Nigeria, recognizing their role as a pillar of bilateral ties.
• Support for Africa:
  • Modi highlighted India’s support for the African Union’s membership in the G20, an outcome of the India-hosted G20 summit in 2023.
  • Nigeria’s Role: He noted Nigeria’s positive influence on Africa and its importance as a key partner in India’s Africa engagement.

Broader Implications for International Relations

• India-Nigeria Security Cooperation:
  • The National Security Advisors (NSA) of India and Nigeria held in-depth discussions on counter-terrorism, extremism, and cybersecurity challenges.
  • India and Nigeria are committed to jointly addressing global threats such as arms smuggling and international crime.
• India's Role as a Development Partner:
  • India’s growing role as a development partner for African nations is becoming increasingly important, exemplified by Nigeria’s close ties with India.
• Global Diplomacy and Soft Power:
  • Modi’s award and visit reflect India’s growing influence in Africa and its emphasis on fostering ties with resource-rich and strategically located nations like Nigeria.
  • The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger is also a reflection of the soft power India is wielding globally.

Key Facts about Nigeria:

• Location: Nigeria is located in West Africa, bordering Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin, with access to the Atlantic Ocean.
• Significance:
  • Known as the “Giant of Africa” due to its large population and economic power.
  • It has the largest economy in Africa, largely driven by its oil reserves.

In News:

As Delhi’s AQI worsened, the Commission for Air Quality Management issued the order to activate Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan.

Restrictions Under GRAP-IV in Delhi-NCR

• Truck Movement:
  • Banned except for essential goods and trucks using clean fuels (LNG, CNG, BS-VI diesel, or electric).
  • Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also banned unless they are CNG or BS-VI diesel or electric vehicles (EVs).
  • Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel vehicles (medium and heavy goods vehicles) are banned, except for those in essential services.
• Construction Activities:Suspension of all construction work, including public projects like highways, roads, flyovers, power lines, pipelines, etc.
• Schools and Work:
  • Online classes for students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11.
  • Work from home (WFH) recommendations for 50% office capacity in NCR.
  • Central government employees may also be asked to work from home.
  • Offline classes for Classes 10 and 12 continue, but schools for other classes must shift to online mode.
• Other Measures:
  • State governments may impose additional measures such as:
    • Closure of colleges.
    • Odd-even vehicle scheme.
    • Restrictions on non-essential commercial activities.

About GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)

• Purpose: A plan to reduce air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region based on AQI levels.
• Approved By: Supreme Court in 2016 (M.C. Mehta v. Union of India).
• Notified by MoEFCC: 2017.
• Implementation Authority: CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management).

Stages of GRAP

GRAP is an incremental system, with measures activated as air quality deteriorates:

• Stage 1: Poor AQI (201-300) – Basic pollution control measures.
• Stage 2: Very Poor AQI (301-400) – Enhanced measures.
• Stage 3: Severe AQI (401-450) – Stricter actions like shutting down industries.
• Stage 4: Severe Plus AQI (Above 450) – Most stringent restrictions, as activated on November 18, 2024.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

• Introduced: 2014, by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Categories:
  • Good: 0-50
  • Satisfactory: 51-100
  • Moderately Polluted: 101-200
  • Poor: 201-300
  • Very Poor: 301-400
  • Severe: 401-450
  • Severe Plus: 451 and above (current status in Delhi).
• Pollutants Considered: PM10, PM2.5, NO?, SO?, CO, O?, NH?, and Pb.
• Measurement: 24-hour average values for PMs, and 8-hour averages for CO and O?.

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

• Established: Under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region (NCR) Act, 2021.
• Mandate: To coordinate, research, and manage air quality issues in the NCR and adjoining areas.
• Composition: Includes government officials, technical experts, and NGO representatives.
• Jurisdiction: Covers Delhi and parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

In News:

Nepal starts exporting energy to Bangladesh with Indian grid support.

Significance of the Power Transfer:

• Energy Cooperation:
  • A major step in regional energy cooperation among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
  • Strengthens sub-regional connectivity in the power sector.
• Nepal’s Hydropower Potential:
  • Nepal, a Himalayan nation, possesses untapped hydropower resources, and this agreement opens the door for future cross-border electricity cooperation.
  • Nepal’s energy exports are a green energy initiative, supporting sustainable industrial growth in Bangladesh and regional prosperity.
• Electricity Crisis in Bangladesh:
  • Bangladesh is facing an ongoing electricity shortage, worsened by the suspension of power supply from Adani’s Godda plant and the maintenance of the Payra thermal unit.
  • The addition of 40 MW of Nepalese hydroelectric power aims to alleviate the energy shortfall in Bangladesh.

Tripartite Power Sales Agreement:

• Agreement Details:
  • The agreement for power transfer was signed in October 2023 between:
    • NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN) (India)
    • Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) (Nepal)
    • Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) (Bangladesh).
  • Power Export: Nepal has started exporting 40 MW of electricity, which marks a significant milestone in trilateral power cooperation.

Key Entities Involved:

• NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN):
  • A wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Ltd. (National Thermal Power Corporation), created to facilitate power trading.
  • NVVN is diversifying into renewables, e-mobility, and green fuel solutions.
• NTPC Ltd.:
  • A Maharatna PSU under India’s Ministry of Power, established to develop power resources in India.
  • Involved in large-scale power generation and clean energy initiatives

In News:

• India and Japan recently signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) to co-develop the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast for deployment on Indian Navy ships. This pact marks a significant milestone as it is India's first military technology transfer agreement with Japan.
• The deal follows a 2015 agreement on the transfer of defense equipment and technology, further strengthening defense ties between the two countries.
• The UNICORN mast is a cutting-edge communication and radar system designed to enhance the stealth characteristics of naval vessels. This agreement is seen as an important step towards deepening India-Japan defense cooperation.

What is UNICORN?

The UNICORN mast is an advanced, integrated antenna system that combines several communication and radar components into a single conical structure or radome (a radar-absorbing dome). It is designed to reduce the radar cross-section (RCS) of ships, improving their stealth capabilities.

Key features of the UNICORN mast include:

• Integration of multiple antennas: It consolidates various antennas used for tactical data links, communications, and navigation systems (e.g., TACAN - Tactical Air Navigation System).
• Stealth enhancement: By reducing the number of exposed components and consolidating them into a single radome, the mast significantly lowers the ship’s radar signature, making it harder to detect.
• Improved performance: The mast design minimizes mutual interference between antennas, enhances maintainability, and increases lightning resistance.
• Space efficiency: It saves valuable below-deck space and reduces ship-building time by integrating multiple systems into one mast.

The UNICORN system is currently deployed on Mogami-class frigates of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.

India-Japan Defense Cooperation

• 2015 Defense Technology Transfer Agreement: This pact established a framework for defense cooperation between India and Japan, paving the way for joint projects like the UNICORN mast.
• Bilateral Military Exercises:
  • Veer Guardian 2023: A bilateral exercise conducted between the Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF), which deepened defense interoperability between the two nations.
  • Tarang Shakti 2024: The first multilateral air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force, with Japanese fighter aircraft participating.
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands Development: Japan has also provided financial aid for infrastructure development in India’s strategically located Andaman and Nicobar Islands, contributing to enhancing India’s maritime security in the region.

In News:

• Bali Jatra 2024 is being held from November 15 to November 22 in Cuttack, Odisha.
• The festival celebrates Odisha’s ancient maritime history and its cultural and trade links with Southeast Asia.
• The event has gained international attention due to the participation of diplomats and cultural troupes from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and Pacific Island countries.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

• Bali Jatra ("Voyage to Bali") commemorates the 2,000-year-old maritime trade routes between ancient Kalinga (modern-day Odisha) and Southeast Asia, including regions like Bali, Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Burma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka.
• The festival honors the skills of Kalinga sailors who contributed to the prosperity of the region through trade, including commodities like pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, silk, camphor, gold, and jewelry.
• It highlights Odisha’s maritime legacy and the cultural exchanges between India and Southeast Asia, particularly the cultural influence of Odia merchants on Bali.

Commercial and Economic Aspects:

• Bali Jatra is Asia’s largest open-air trade fair, featuring over 2,500 stalls selling a variety of products including artisanal crafts, household items, and food.
• The event is a major commercial activity with business transactions estimated to exceed ?100 crore over the course of the festival.
• The festival provides an opportunity for both local and national traders to exhibit products at competitive prices.

Cultural Performances and International Participation:

• The festival includes daily cultural performances showcasing Odissi dance, Chhau dance, Bihu, Mahari, Gotipua, Sambalpuri, and Santali folk dances.
• This year, cultural troupes from countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have participated, enhancing the international profile of the festival.
• Diplomats, including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Heads of Mission from 14 countries attended the inaugural ceremony.

Historical Background of Bali Jatra:

• The festival is linked to Kartika Purnima, the full moon night of the month of Kartika, marking the annual migration of traders from Odisha to Southeast Asia.
• Traders used boats called Boitas to travel to distant lands, which is now symbolically represented in the festival.
• The event’s cultural significance extends to the recognition of Odisha’s historic maritime routes, with ports like Tamralipti, Manikpatna, Chelitalo, Palur, and Pithunda playing key roles in global trade from as early as the 4th century BC.

Kalinga's Maritime Influence:

• The Kalinga Empire (present-day Odisha) had significant influence over the Bay of Bengal, referred to as the Kalinga Sea.
• Kalinga’s dominance in maritime trade is reflected in Kalidasa's Raghuvamsa, where the King of Kalinga is called "Lord of the Sea."
• Kalinga's Boitas (ships) were instrumental in connecting India with the Southeast Asian archipelago, including Bali.

Cultural Linkages with Bali:

• Odisha's trade with Bali influenced the culture, religion, and architecture of the region.
• Balinese Hinduism today still reflects Indian influences, with worship of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and Ganesha.
• The MasakapankeTukad festival in Bali, similar to Bali Jatra in Odisha, is a tribute to the maritime ancestors of Bali and commemorates the long-standing cultural ties.

Recognition and Milestones:

• Bali Jatra 2022 achieved a Guinness World Record for creating the largest collection of origami sculptures.
• The festival has evolved from a traditional trade fair to an international cultural event that highlights Odisha’s historical role in global trade and cultural exchanges.

In News:

On November 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a commemorative stamp and coin to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a prominent tribal freedom fighter and leader from Jharkhand.

Key Points about Birsa Munda:

• Iconic Tribal Leader: Birsa Munda, born in 1875, is often referred to as ‘Bhagwan’ (God) and ‘DhartiAaba’ (Father of the Earth) by the tribal communities. He is celebrated for his leadership in the fight against the exploitation of tribal people by both the British and non-tribal settlers.
• Ulgulan Movement: Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan (Great Tumult) against the alienation of land, forced labour, and the illegal appropriation of tribal land in the Chotanagpur Plateau. His efforts were critical in mobilizing tribal communities and challenging the colonial order.
• Religious and Social Reformer: He founded the Birsait faith, focusing on spiritual practices that emphasized prayer, worship of God, and abstaining from alcohol, fostering unity and resilience among tribal communities.
• Death and Legacy: Birsa Munda died in 1900 in British custody at the young age of 25. Despite his early death, his legacy lives on as a symbol of tribal pride and resistance.
• Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas: Since 2021, the Government of India observes November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day) in honor of Birsa Munda's birth anniversary, recognizing the contributions of tribal communities and their role in India's history.
• Highlights of the 2024 Commemoration:
  • Commemorative Stamp and Coin: To mark the 150th birth anniversary, the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative stamp and coin in Bihar's Jamui district. This serves as a tribute to Munda's sacrifices for the country.
  • Year-Long Celebrations: The 2024 event marks the beginning of year-long celebrations to commemorate Birsa Munda’s legacy, with a focus on tribal welfare and recognition of their historical contributions.
  • Welfare Projects and Initiatives:
    • Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for tribal welfare projects worth over ?6,640 crore.
    • The PM launched two tribal freedom fighter museums and tribal research institutes.
    • 1.16 lakh homes were sanctioned under the Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Yojana.
    • 25,000 homes for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) were approved under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) scheme.
  • The launch of 50 mobile medical units aims to improve healthcare access in tribal regions.
  • 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) were inaugurated to promote education for tribal students.
• DhartiAabaJanjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan:
  • The DhartiAabaJanjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan aims to address gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood in tribal-majority villages.
  • The initiative is being implemented across 63,000 villages with the involvement of 17 ministries and departments.
• PM-JANMAN Scheme for PVTGs:
  • Launched in November 2023, the PM-JANMAN initiative aims to uplift Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) through various interventions like safe housing, clean drinking water, healthcare, education, and sustainable livelihoods. The scheme also supports Van Dhan Vikas Kendras for the trade of forest produce and solar-powered systems for households in tribal areas.

In News:

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has launched the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) program to significantly boost research and innovation across Indian universities, especially those with limited research infrastructure. The program is designed to bring about a transformative change in India's academic research ecosystem, aligning with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Details:

• Launch Date: November 2024
• Ministry/Department: Department of Science and Technology (DST)
• Objective:
  • To elevate research capabilities in universities that have limited resources by pairing them with well-established, top-tier institutions.
  • To foster collaborations that can help these emerging universities enhance their research quality, drive innovation, and make significant, globally competitive research contributions.
• Operational Model: Hub-and-Spoke Framework
  • Hub Institutions: These are well-established, top-tier institutions that will serve as mentors to less-researched universities. The hubs will be selected from:
    • The top 25 institutions in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
    • Institutions of National Importance ranked in the top 50 NIRF.
  • Spoke Institutions: These are emerging universities or institutions with limited research infrastructure. These will include:
    • Central and State Public Universities ranked within the top 200 NIRF Overall.
    • Top 100 NIRF University/State Public Universities.
    • Select NITs and IIITs.
• Funding:
  • The program has a budget allocation of up to ?100 crore per PAIR network.
  • Distribution of Funds:
    • 30% for the Hub institution.
    • 70% for the Spoke institutions.
  • Private Institutions serving as hubs will need to contribute 25% of their allocated budget.
• Mentorship & Research Focus:
  • Hubs will provide mentorship to spoke institutions, guiding them in various aspects of research such as access to resources, advanced infrastructure, and best practices.
  • The collaboration is expected to enhance research capabilities, foster innovation, and encourage the development of collaborative networks across institutions.
• Regional Diversity & Inclusion:
  • The program ensures regional diversity, with at least one spoke institution located outside the hub's state.
  • It also allows the inclusion of one promising university from Category III institutions that may not meet the eligibility criteria but show potential for growth in research.
• Phase-wise Rollout:
  • The first phase will focus on institutions ranked within the top 25 NIRF and Institutions of National Importance.
  • Future phases will expand the scope, allowing more universities and institutions to participate.
• Goals Aligned with NEP 2020:
  • Fostering Research Excellence: By partnering top institutions with emerging ones, PAIR seeks to improve the quality of research in India’s higher education sector.
  • Promoting Regional Diversity: Ensuring a geographically diverse set of institutions participate in the research ecosystem.
  • Strengthening Innovation: Helping universities in less-researched areas to compete on an international level, particularly in cutting-edge and impactful research.
• Program Implementation:
• Prospective Program Directors from eligible Hub institutions are invited to apply online for the program at ANRF PAIR Application Portal.

About ANRF:

• ANRF was established under the ANRF Act 2023 as an apex body to provide strategic direction for scientific research in India.
• With the formation of ANRF, the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), previously established under an act of Parliament in 2008, has been subsumed into ANRF.

In News:

• Recently, the Operation Dronagiri, launched under the National Geospatial Policy 2022 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• Objective: It is a pilot project under India’s National Geospatial Policy 2022 aimed at showcasing the potential of geospatial technologies in sectors such as Agriculture, Livelihoods, and Logistics & Transport to improve quality of life and ease of doing business.
• Implementation:
  • The first phase will cover five states: Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
  • Sectors Targeted: The focus will be on demonstrating the integration of geospatial data to solve real-world challenges in agriculture, transportation, and livelihoods.

National Geospatial Policy 2022

• Context: The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is aimed at liberalizing geospatial data and enabling widespread access and use of geospatial technologies across various sectors of governance, business, and development.
• Goals:
  • Development of Geospatial Infrastructure: Promoting the creation of a robust infrastructure to make spatial data more accessible and usable.
  • Geospatial Skill Development: Focus on creating a workforce proficient in geospatial technologies.
  • Implementation of Standards: Establishing clear standards for geospatial data to ensure consistency and interoperability.

Role of Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI)

• Launch: Alongside Operation Dronagiri, the Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI) was also unveiled.
• Purpose: GDI is designed to facilitate seamless data sharing, access, and analysis of geospatial data.
  • Key Features:
    • Data Exchange: Enables smooth sharing of geospatial data for urban planning, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
    • Privacy and Security: Built with advanced data exchange protocols and privacy-preserving features to ensure secure data sharing.
    • Collaboration: It will promote collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, industry, and startups, to unlock actionable insights for decision-making.

Potential Applications of Geospatial Data

• Urban Planning: Assisting cities in designing efficient infrastructure.
• Disaster Management: Providing real-time data for better disaster response.
• Environmental Monitoring: Supporting initiatives for environmental protection and sustainability.
• Agriculture: Precision farming, crop monitoring, and improving supply chains.
• Logistics & Transport: Streamlining transportation networks, reducing traffic, and improving delivery systems.

Grand Challenge for Startups

• Objective: A Grand Challenge was announced as part of the initiative to support startups in developing Proofs of Concept (POCs) targeting specific problems in the focus sectors.
• Role of Startups: The challenge encourages innovation by early-stage and growth-stage startups in geospatial technology, offering mentorship, resources, and access to datasets.
• Geospatial Innovation Accelerators:
  • The Geospatial Innovation Accelerators (GIAs) at prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, IIM Calcutta, and IIT Ropar will support this effort.
  • Mentorship and Resources: These accelerators will provide the necessary support for startups to turn their innovations into scalable solutions.

Key Stakeholders and Operational Arms

• Geospatial Innovation Cell (DST): Responsible for overseeing the project’s implementation and execution.
• Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (IITTNiF): Will manage the operational activities of Operation Dronagiri.
• Partnering Institutions: GIAs at IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, IIM Calcutta, and IIT Ropar will be the operational arms.
• Private Sector Involvement: Significant involvement of private sector companies, including startups, is crucial to ensuring the success and scalability of the project.

Impact and Significance

• Socioeconomic Benefits: The integration of geospatial data into agriculture, transport, and logistics will improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost economic activity in critical sectors.
• Geospatial Innovation: The initiative marks a significant step towards making India a global leader in geospatial technology and positioning the country as a hub for innovative solutions using geospatial data.
• Government Engagement: The project will involve various government departments and corporates in a public-private partnership (PPP) model, similar to the successful implementation of the UPI payment system.

In News:

Australia has come up with a new scheme that allows talented young people from India to work in the country for some time.

What is the MATES Scheme?

• Full Name: Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES).
• Objective: To provide Indian university graduates and early-career professionals with an opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
• Establishment: The scheme is part of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between Australia and India, signed on May 23, 2023.
• Launch Date: MATES will open for applicants in December 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Applicants must be 30 years or younger at the time of application.
• Educational Qualifications: Must have graduated within the last two years from an eligible institution with a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of the following fields:
  • Renewable Energy
  • Mining
  • Engineering
  • Information Communications Technology (ICT)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Financial Technology (FinTech)
  • Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)
• English Proficiency: A minimum score of 6 overall in IELTS (or equivalent), with at least 5 in each module.
• Institutional Criteria: Graduates must be from the top 100 Indian universities as per the NIRF Ranking 2024 (e.g., Panjab University, Chandigarh University, Thapar Institute of Engineering, Lovely Professional University).
• Previous Participation: Applicants must not have previously participated in the MATES scheme.

Key Features of the MATES Scheme

• No Employer Sponsorship Required: Applicants are not required to have sponsorship from an Australian employer.
• Visa Duration: The visa allows a stay of up to 2 years in Australia, with multiple entries permitted.
• Dependents: Visa holders can bring dependents (spouse and children). Dependents will have work rights in Australia but will not count towards the annual cap.
• Visa Application Process:
  • The visa will be granted through a ballot system (random selection).
  • Application Fee: AUD 25.
  • Shortlisted candidates will proceed to further formalities.

Program Features

• Targeted Sectors: MATES focuses on key sectors such as renewable energy, mining, engineering, ICT, AI, FinTech, and AgriTech, aligning with Australia’s demand for skilled professionals in these areas.
• Pilot Program: Initially, the scheme will offer 3,000 places per year for primary applicants.
• Work Flexibility: While the visa does not require applicants to work in their nominated field, it is designed to help young professionals expand their skills and network in Australia’s key industries.

Additional Benefits

• Career Development: Participants will gain international work experience, expanding their professional network and skills.
• Cultural Exchange: The scheme also promotes cultural exchange between India and Australia, fostering stronger bilateral relations.
• Pathway for Future Opportunities: Participants may apply for further temporary or permanent residence in Australia, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

Impact and Significance

• Bilateral Cooperation: The MMPA, under which MATES is established, enhances migration and mobility between India and Australia while addressing concerns related to illegal migration.
• Youth Empowerment: The scheme offers young professionals a platform to develop their careers internationally, particularly in sectors of global relevance like AI, FinTech, and renewable energy.
• Skill Development: MATES aims to bridge skill gaps in Australia by attracting Indian professionals to key sectors where expertise is in high demand.
• Global Talent Mobility: This scheme supports the global mobility of young talent and strengthens the India-Australia economic and educational partnership.

In News:

The Delhi Police recently initiated Operation Kawach, arresting and detaining around 1,000 people in an attempt to crack down on various gangs and their operations in the wake of the recent incidents of shootings reported in the city.

Overview of Operation Kawach

• Objective: A crackdown on gang-related violence, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities like possession of firearms, banned drugs, and liquor.
• Agencies Involved:Delhi Police (Local Police, Special Cell, and Crime Branch)
• Duration: Initiated on November 12, 2024 (5 PM) and continued until November 13, 2024 (5 PM).

Key Details of the Operation

• Arrests and Detentions:
  • Around 1,000 people detained.
  • 486 people apprehended in Outer North Delhi (20% juveniles).
  • Arrests made in Dwarka, Southwest, and North Delhi.
• Key Gangs Targeted:
  • Associated with notorious gangs led by Lawrence Bishnoi, Neeraj Bawana, Kaushal Chaudhary, TilluTajpuria, Kala Jatheri, Manjeet Mahal, and Nandu gangs.
• Charges: Involvement in activities like:
  • Possession of illegal firearms.
  • Trafficking of liquor and banned drugs (NDPS Act).
  • Theft and other criminal activities.

Significance of Operation Kawach

• Public Safety: Aimed at dismantling organized crime networks to enhance safety and reduce violence in Delhi.
• Impact on Gangs: Directly targets high-profile criminals, including those involved in gang wars and drug trafficking.
• Strategic Law Enforcement: Strengthens law enforcement capabilities, working in coordination across multiple police units.

In News:

• The population of African elephants has been declining rapidly, with data showing alarming drops across the African continent.
• Survey Period: The study covers population data from 475 sites in 37 countries over 52 years (1964-2016).
• Population Decrease:
  • Savannah Elephants: A 70% decline on average across surveyed sites.
  • Forest Elephants: A 90% decline on average across surveyed sites.
• Overall Impact: The study indicates a 77% average decline in elephant populations across both species.

Main Drivers of Decline

• Poaching: Illegal hunting for ivory and other body parts remains a major threat.
• Habitat Loss: Urbanization, agricultural expansion, and climate change are encroaching on the elephant’s natural habitats.
• Human-Elephant Conflict: Increased human settlements near elephant habitats lead to conflicts, further endangering elephant populations.

Species Overview

• Two Subspecies:
  • Savannah Elephant (Loxodonta africana): Larger and more common, found in open savannas.
  • Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis): Smaller and more elusive, found in dense rainforests.
• Conservation Status:
  • Savannah Elephant: Endangered (IUCN).
  • Forest Elephant: Critically Endangered (IUCN).
• CITES Listing: Both species are listed under CITES Appendix I, which bans international trade in endangered species.

Regional Impact

• Northern and Eastern Africa: These regions have seen drastic declines, particularly in the Sahel (Mali, Chad, Nigeria), where elephants have been extirpated (locally extinct) due to poaching and insufficient protection.
• Southern Africa: Positive Growth in some areas, particularly in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, where elephant populations are growing due to strong conservation efforts.

Conservation Success

• Southern Africa: 42% of the surveyed sites showed increasing elephant populations, a testament to successful conservation strategies.
• Government and NGO Efforts: Successful population growth is often attributed to active management, including anti-poaching laws, protected areas, and conservation funding.

Elephant Behavior and Reproduction

• Social Structure: Elephants live in family units led by mature females, with strong social bonds.
• Low Sleep Time: Elephants sleep only 2 hours per day on average.
• Reproduction: They have a long gestation period of up to 2 years, and calves are cared for by mothers and allomothers (non-mother females).

Conservation Challenges

• Sustainability: Continued poaching and habitat destruction threaten to undo gains made in conservation.
• Fragmentation of Populations: With many elephants in isolated pockets, genetic diversity is declining, which could lead to long-term problems for species survival.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

Key Highlights:

• India's Ranking:
  • Ranked 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI).
  • India is listed among the five worst performers, along with Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).
  • Score: 45.5 out of 100, indicating significant conservation challenges.
• Key Factors Contributing to Low Rank:
  • Inefficient land management practices.
  • Rising threats to biodiversity, exacerbated by unsustainable development and climate change.
• Four Key Markers Assessed by the NCI:
  • Land Management: Ineffective management leading to significant land conversion.
  • Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and deforestation.
  • Capacity and Governance: Need for stronger political will and better enforcement of conservation laws.
  • Future Trends: Growing pressure from population density, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade.
• Sustainable Land Use Concerns:
  • 53% of land has been converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
  • High use of pesticides and concerns over soil pollution.
  • Sustainable nitrogen index of 0.77 indicates significant risks to soil health.
• Marine Conservation Issues:
  • Only 0.2% of India’s national waterways are under protected areas, with no protected areas within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
  • Significant improvements needed in marine conservation despite 7.5% of terrestrial areas being protected.
• Deforestation and Habitat Loss:
  • 23,300 sq. km of tree cover lost between 2001-2019 due to deforestation.
  • Habitat fragmentation from agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development.
  • Impact of climate change on sensitive ecosystems like alpine regions and coral reefs.
• Biodiversity Decline:
  • Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species being within Protected Areas (PAs), many species continue to face population decline.
  • 67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species are still experiencing population declines.
• Illegal Wildlife Trade:
  • India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trading nation globally, with an estimated annual trade value of £15 billion.
  • The NCI emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement and international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking.
• Ecological Wealth Under Threat:
  • India’s high population density (with a population that has doubled since the late 1970s) continues to put pressure on its ecological wealth.
  • The country faces significant biodiversity challenges due to overpopulation and unsustainable development.
• Recommendations and Optimism:
  • The NCI stresses the need for strong political will and commitment to sustainable development.
  • India can improve its rank by strengthening conservation laws, improving governance, and securing funding for environmental initiatives.
  • The NCI remains optimistic about India’s potential to address its conservation challenges and achieve more sustainable outcomes in the future.
• About the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):
• Developed by: Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change (Ben-Gurion University) and BioDB.com (a biodiversity database).
• Purpose: Evaluates the conservation efforts of countries, using a data-driven approach to balance conservation and development.
• Key Focus Areas: Land management, biodiversity threats, governance, and future sustainability trends.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to obtain necessary approvals from the government and concurrence from the investee companies when their equity holdings go beyond the prescribed limits and they reclassify the holdings as foreign direct investment (FDI).

• Approval Requirement:
  • FPIs (Foreign Portfolio Investors) must obtain necessary government approvals when reclassifying their foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) into Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
  • Approvals are mandatory, including those related to investments from countries sharing a land border with India.
• Investment Limits:
  • According to FEMA (NDI) Rules, 2019, an FPI’s investment in an Indian company should not exceed 10% of the total paid-up equity capital (on a fully diluted basis).
  • If the FPI exceeds this limit, it has 5 trading days from the settlement of trades to either divest or reclassify the excess holdings as FDI.
• Restrictions on Reclassification:
  • Reclassification to FDI is not allowed in sectors where FDI is prohibited.
  • FPIs must ensure compliance with FDI norms, such as entry routes, sectoral caps, investment limits, pricing guidelines, and other related conditions.
• Concurrence from Investee Companies:
  • The FPI must obtain the concurrence of the investee company for reclassifying the investment into FDI.
  • This ensures that the company adheres to conditions related to prohibited sectors, sectoral caps, and government approvals.
• Reclassification Procedure:
  • The FPI must clearly state its intent to reclassify the investment to FDI and provide the necessary approvals and concurrence to its custodian.
  • The custodian is responsible for freezing the FPI's purchase transactions in the investee company’s equity instruments until the reclassification is complete.
• Regulatory Adherence:
  • The reclassification must follow the relevant provisions for FDI, including compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and FDI guidelines.

In News:

Recently, the Supreme Court of India delivered a significant ruling affirming that the right of persons with disabilities (PwDs) to access environments, services, and opportunities is a fundamental human right. The judgment was made in the case of RajiveRaturi vs. Union of India &Ors. and is based on a report submitted by the Centre for Disability Studies (CDS) at NALSAR University of Law.

Key Points of the Judgment:

• Social Model of Disability:
  • The Court upheld the social model of disability, which focuses on societal changes to ensure the full inclusion and participation of PwDs.
  • The model emphasizes removing social barriers and creating an inclusive environment that accommodates all disabilities.
• Challenges Faced by PwDs: The ruling highlighted various challenges faced by PwDs, as identified in the CDS NALSAR report:
  • Accessibility Barriers: Significant gaps exist in accessibility measures across public spaces such as courts, prisons, schools, and public transport.
  • Intersectionality & Compounded Discrimination: PwDs often face multiple layers of discrimination, such as caste, gender, and socio-economic status, which compound their marginalization.
  • Inconsistent Legal Framework: The RPwD Act (2016) mandates mandatory compliance for accessibility standards, but Rule 15 under RPwD Rules (2017) only offers self-regulatory guidelines, which the Court found insufficient.
• Court's Analysis of Rule 15:
  • The Court declared Rule 15(1) of the RPwD Rules, 2017, as ultra vires, meaning it is inconsistent with the mandatory compliance intended by the RPwD Act.
  • The Court stressed the need for stronger legal and regulatory enforcement to ensure access for PwDs.
• Principles of Accessibility: The Court outlined several essential principles for achieving accessibility:
  • Universal Design: Environments and services should be universally accessible to all, including PwDs.
  • Comprehensive Inclusion: All types of disabilities, both visible and invisible, should be addressed.
  • Assistive Technology Integration: Using technology to support PwDs in daily activities.
  • Stakeholder Consultation: PwDs and disability advocacy groups must be consulted in planning and designing accessible spaces.
• Two-Pronged Approach:
  • The Court recommended a two-pronged approach:
    • Ensure accessibility in existing infrastructure: Modify and update current institutions and services to become accessible.
    • Design future infrastructure with accessibility in mind: Plan and build new spaces and services that are inclusive from the start.

Legal and Policy Framework:

• Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016:
  • The RPwD Act mandates various accessibility standards and provisions to protect and promote the rights of PwDs, in alignment with India’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which India ratified in 2007.
  • The Act defines a person with a benchmark disability as someone with at least 40% of a specified disability.
• International Obligations:
  • The ruling reaffirmed the importance of Article 9 of the UNCRPD, which emphasizes the right of PwDs to access the physical environment, transport, and information and communication technologies.
• Government Initiatives: The judgment highlights several initiatives aimed at improving accessibility:
  • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan): A nationwide effort to make public spaces and services accessible to PwDs.
  • Assistance for Aids and Appliances: Government schemes to provide PwDs with necessary aids and appliances.
  • Unique Disability Identification Portal: A platform for PwDs to register and obtain a disability certificate.

Notable Judicial Precedents:

The Court referred to several previous rulings that recognized the right to accessibility:

• State of Himachal Pradesh v. Umed Ram Sharma (1986): The Court included the right to accessibility under the Right to Life (Article 21) of the Constitution.
• Disabled Rights Group v. Union of India (2017): The Court directed that educational institutions ensure reserved seats for PwDs.

In News:

• The Parliamentary Panel on Communications and Information Technology is reviewing mechanisms to curb fake news, following the Bombay High Court striking down a provision of the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021.
• The controversial provision allowed the government to identify and flag "fake news" on social media through its Fact Check Unit (FCU).
• The panel, led by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, has summoned representatives from News Broadcasters and Digital Association and the Editors Guild of India to discuss the issue on November 21, 2024.

Issue with the Amended IT Rules:

• The IT Rules, 2021 were amended in April 2022 to include “government business” under the definition of fake news, expanding the scope of content flagged by the FCU.
• This amendment was challenged by media bodies and individuals like comedian Kunal Kamra, leading to the Bombay High Court striking it down in 2024.
• The court deemed the provisions unconstitutional, citing concerns about transparency and the potential misuse of power.

Types of Fake News:

• Misinformation: False information spread unintentionally.
• Disinformation: Deliberately false information meant to deceive and cause harm.

Status of Fake News in India:

• India as a major spreader of misinformation: The World Economic Forum's Global Risks 2024 report identifies disinformation as a significant short-term risk, with India as one of the largest consumers and producers of false information.
• Social Media Influence: Platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and YouTube are widely used in India for news dissemination, making them a breeding ground for fake news.
• Spread of Political and Religious Misinformation: Fake news often serves political or religious agendas, leading to societal polarization and conflict.

Government Efforts to Combat Fake News:

• IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023: This amendment expanded the scope of "fake news" to include “government business” and gave the FCU the authority to flag misleading content.
• Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit: The PIB continues to run a fact-checking initiative, but it lacks the authority to remove flagged content from social media platforms.
• Digital Literacy Campaigns: Programs like Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) aim to improve digital literacy, especially in rural areas, to help citizens identify and avoid fake news.

In News:

National Education Day is celebrated annually on November 11 to honor the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India's first Education Minister and a prominent freedom fighter, scholar, and educator.

Key Highlights:

• Establishment:
  • The observance was instituted by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (now Ministry of Education) in 2008 to recognize Azad’s pivotal contributions to India’s education system and his vision for a progressive, educated society.
• Azad's Contributions to Education:
  • Azad played a significant role in shaping India's post-independence educational landscape, establishing critical institutions such as:
    • University Grants Commission (UGC)
    • All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
    • Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), including IIT Kharagpur
    • Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)
    • Promoted scientific research, cultural institutions, and technical education.
• Significance of National Education Day:
  • Reflects India’s commitment to promoting quality and inclusive education.
  • Emphasizes the importance of education in empowering individuals and fostering national progress.
  • Highlights educational reforms, literacy, and equal access to education as tools for societal transformation and empowerment.
• Theme for 2024:
  • Although not officially published yet, the theme is expected to focus on inclusive, high-quality education, underlining the need for educational systems that equip students with skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
• Focus Areas:
  • Promoting literacy, equal access to education, and educational reforms.
  • Developing critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence in students.

In News:

The QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025 spotlights the top institutions in Eastern, Southern, South-Eastern, and Central Asia, emphasizing academic excellence, research, innovation, and internationalization.

India's Performance:

India has shown a remarkable upward trajectory, featuring:

• Two institutions in the Top 50:
  • IIT Delhi ranked 44th (up from 46th), with a 99% employer reputation score.
  • IIT Bombay ranked 48th, excelling with a 99.5% employer reputation score and 96.6% academic reputation score.
• Top 100 Institutions:
  • IIT Madras (56th), IIT Kharagpur (60th), Indian Institute of Science (62nd), IIT Kanpur (67th), and University of Delhi (81st).
• Top 150 Institutions:
  • IIT Guwahati, IIT Roorkee, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Chandigarh University (120th), UPES (148th), and VIT (150th).

Key Indicators for India:

• International Research Network and Citations per Paper contribute to India's growing global academic reputation.
• Papers per Faculty and Staff with PhD are India’s strongest indicators, reflecting robust research output and high teaching standards.
• Anna University achieved a perfect score of 100 in the Papers Per Faculty indicator, emphasizing high research output.
• North Eastern Hill University and University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore received a perfect score of 100 in the Faculty-Student Indicator.

Growth of Indian Institutions:

• India now has 46 institutions in the 2025 rankings, up from just 11 in 2015, marking a 318% increase over the past decade.
• India dominates Southern Asia with seven institutions in the top 10, showcasing the country's strengthening educational landscape.

India's Growing Global Influence:

• India's achievements underscore its commitment to academic excellence, competitiveness, and resilience in global higher education.
• Institutions like IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay highlight India’s ability to balance research productivity with high-quality teaching, enhancing its reputation as a global education hub.

In News:

• The 3rd edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND started on 8th November 2024 at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra. The exercise will run until 21st November 2024.

Participating Forces:

• Indian Contingent: 140 personnel, primarily from the DOGRA Regiment and Indian Air Force (14 personnel).
• Australian Contingent: 120 personnel from the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade of the 2nd Division.

Purpose of the Exercise:

• Enhance Military Cooperation between India and Australia.
• Promote Interoperability in conducting joint sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and semi-desert terrain.
• Focus on operations under Chapter VII of the UN mandate.

Key Objectives:

• Joint Tactical Drills and Planning to improve coordination between the forces.
• Training in counter-terrorism operations, special heli-borne operations, and drone countermeasures.

Phases of the Exercise:

Combat Conditioning and Tactical Training Phase:

• Includes drills such as terrorist response, territory capture, and Raid and Search & Destroy Missions.
• Establishment of Joint Operations Centre and securing critical infrastructure like helipads.
• Training on drone operations and counter-drone measures.

Validation Phase: Practical application and testing of skills learned in the previous phase.

Significance:

Best Practices Sharing: Both sides will exchange tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting effective tactical operations. 

Camaraderie Building: The exercise will foster a strong bond between soldiers from both countries.

Background: AUSTRAHIND is an annual exercise held alternately in India and Australia. The last edition took place in Australia in December 2023.

In News:

• Bengaluru's first digital population clock was inaugurated at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) on November 8, 2024.
• The initiative is collaboration between ISEC and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

Purpose:

• The clock provides real-time population estimates for Karnataka and India.
• It aims to enhance awareness about population dynamics and provide accurate demographic data for research and policy analysis.

Key Features:

• Real-time Updates:
  • Karnataka’s population is updated every 1 minute and 10 seconds.
  • India’s population updates every 2 seconds.
• Precision:
  • The clock operates with satellite connections for real-time, accurate data updates.
  • It functions autonomously with integrated components, ensuring continuous and precise tracking.
• Location: The clock is prominently displayed at the entrance of ISEC.
• National Expansion: Similar digital population clocks are being installed in 18 Population Research Centres across India by MoHFW.

Significance:

• Awareness: The clock serves as a visual tool to highlight the rapid pace of population growth and its implications for sustainable development.
• Research and Analysis: The clock is part of a broader effort to improve demographic studies and inform policy-making.
• Census Data Research Workstation:
  • ISEC has introduced a new research workstation, supported by MoHFW, for in-depth demographic analysis.
  • The facility is equipped with advanced software for studying population trends and supporting academic research.

In News:

• Released at the Global Education Meeting, hosted in Fortaleza by Brazil, the G20 President.
• Highlights progress and challenges in global education, with a focus on leadership, financing, and access.

Key Observations:

Leaders as Agents of Change:

• Education leadership is defined as social influence towards achieving common educational goals.
• Education leaders must:
  • Define clear purposes and influence change.
  • Balance learning outcomes with equity, quality, and inclusion.

Funding Deficits:

• 4 out of 10 countries spend less than 4% of their GDP on education.

Out-of-School Children:

• 251 million children and youth globally remain out of school, with only a 1% reduction since 2015.

Regional Disparities in Education Access:

• Central and Southern Asia show significant progress, but countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan still have large out-of-school populations.

Recommendations:

• Leadership Development: Empower school principals with the autonomy to manage schools effectively.
• Capacity Building for System Leaders: Strengthen the ability of education officials to act as system leaders.
• Climate Change Education: Introduce climate change topics in early education across subjects, not limited to science.

India’s Educational Initiatives:

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Focuses on developing school leadership through training and workshops for principals.
• NISHTHA Program: Aims to improve leadership and management competencies of school heads and teachers.

Current Educational Landscape:

• Since 2015, 110 million children have entered school, and 40 million more complete secondary education.
• However, 33% of children in low-income countries remain out of school, compared to only 3% in high-income countries.
• Sub-Saharan Africa houses more than half of the global out-of-school youth.

Challenges in Education Financing:

• UNESCO–World Bank report highlights that 40% of countries allocate less than 15% of their public expenditure to education.
• Countries investing less than 4% of GDP in education face significant resource shortages.
• Low-income countries spend an average of $55 per learner, while high-income countries spend $8,543 per learner.

Need for Innovative Financing Mechanisms:

• Debt-for-Education Swaps: Proposes converting unsustainable debt into funding for education, leveraging past successful initiatives.
• Multilateral Platforms: Suggested to facilitate global negotiations for converting debt into educational investments, involving entities like UNESCO and the G20.

International Cooperation and Solidarity:

• Decline in Education Assistance: Official development assistance for education has decreased from 9.3% in 2019 to 7.6% in 2022.
• Strengthening Partnerships: The need for enhanced global cooperation to fill the educational financing gap and ensure equitable access to quality education.

In News:

The Adaptation Gap Report 2024, published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), underscores the urgent need for enhanced climate adaptation efforts, particularly through increased financial support for developing countries. The report, titled Come Hell and High Water, provides an annual assessment of global adaptation progress in planning, implementation, and financing.

Key Findings

• Adaptation Gap:
  • The adaptation finance gap is estimated at $187–359 billion per year.
  • Current adaptation finance falls short, with only $28 billion provided in 2022, meeting just 5% of projected needs.
• Adaptation Progress:
  • International public adaptation finance to developing countries rose to $27.5 billion in 2022, up from $19 billion in 2019, reflecting progress toward the Glasgow Climate Pact's goal of doubling finance by 2025.
• Significance of Adaptation:
  • Ambitious adaptation measures could reduce global climate risk by 50%.
  • For instance, $16 billion annually in agriculture could prevent climate-induced hunger for 78 million people.
• Impact of Global Warming:
  • According to UNEP's Emissions Gap Report 2024, global temperatures may increase by 2.6°C–3.1°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.
  • Developing countries face severe vulnerabilities, evidenced by recent floods in Nepal, Nigeria, and Chad.
• National Adaptation Plans (NAPs):
  • While 171 countries have at least one adaptation policy, progress in implementation remains slow.
  • 10 countries have shown no interest in developing adaptation policies.

Challenges in Adaptation Financing

• Financial Burden: Adaptation projects such as seawalls and resilient infrastructure are costly for developing nations.
• Funding Shortfalls:
  • Developed nations have failed to meet financial commitments like the $100 billion goal set for 2020.
  • The adaptation finance gap remains significant in non-private sector-funded areas, such as ecosystem preservation.
• High-Interest Loans: Much current funding relies on high-interest loans, increasing the debt burden for recipient countries.

Recommendations

• Adopt New Financing Goals: Establish an ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal for climate finance at COP29.
• Strategic Adaptation Financing:
  • Shift from project-based to anticipatory and transformational financing.
  • Invest in harder-to-finance areas like ecosystem preservation and cultural heritage.
• Alternative Financing Models: Encourage risk finance, resilience bonds, debt-for-adaptation swaps, and payments for ecosystem services.

Global and Indian Initiatives

Global Initiatives:

• Paris Agreement: Sets a global adaptation goal to enhance resilience.
• UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience: Introduced at COP28, focusing on agriculture, water, and health adaptation targets.
• Adaptation Fund: Provides project funding for developing nations under the Kyoto Protocol.

Indian Initiatives:

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Includes eight missions, such as the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC).
• Sectoral Schemes:
  • MISHTI: Mangrove initiative for shoreline protection.
  • Amrit Dharohar: Enhances wetland ecosystems.
• India's adaptation spending accounted for 5.6% of GDP in 2021–2022.

In News:

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a landmark initiative by the Indian government aimed at revitalizing traditional craftsmanship and empowering artisans and craftspeople, often referred to as Vishwakarmas. Launched on September 17, 2023, during Vishwakarma Jayanti, the scheme highlights the government's commitment to preserving India's rich cultural heritage and supporting the unorganized sector.

Key Highlights

• Objective:
  • To strengthen the Guru-Shishya tradition and improve the quality, reach, and marketability of products and services by artisans.
  • To integrate Vishwakarmas into domestic and global value chains, making them self-reliant.
  • To alleviate poverty by supporting rural and urban artisans across India.
• Financial Outlay:,Fully funded by the Union Government with a ?13,000 crore budget spanning five years (2023–2028).
• Eligibility:
  • Open to rural and urban artisans and craftspeople involved in 18 traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, boat making, and carpentry.
  • Covers 5 lakh families in the first year and aims to reach 30 lakh families over five years.
• Key Benefits:
  • Financial Support:
    • Collateral-free credit of ?1 lakh (first tranche) and ?2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional 5% interest rate.
    • Government provides 8% interest subvention upfront to banks.
  • Toolkit Incentive: ?15,000 via e-vouchers for acquiring modern tools.
  • Training and Skill Development: Basic and advanced skill training to create industry-ready manpower.
  • Digital and Marketing Incentives: Encourages digital transactions and provides marketing support.
  • Recognition: Beneficiaries receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card.
  • Market Linkage: Facilitates better market access for artisan products.
• Achievements (as of Nov 4, 2024):
  • 25.8 million applications received.
  • 2.37 million artisans registered after verification.
  • Over 1 million artisans benefited from toolkit incentives.

Significance

• Promotes inclusive development by supporting an underserved segment of the workforce.
• Recognizes and supports traditional skills passed down through generations, preserving India’s cultural diversity.
• Enhances productivity and competitiveness by integrating artisans into MSME sectors.
• Encourages sustainability through the promotion of handmade, eco-friendly crafts.

Key Institutions Involved

• Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME): Oversees implementation.
• Common Services Centres (CSC): Facilitates registration through biometric-based PM Vishwakarma Portal.

Challenges Addressed

• Lack of access to modern tools and financial support.
• Insufficient market linkages and exposure for traditional crafts.
• Limited opportunities for skill enhancement and product development.

In News:

Adoption Awareness Month is an annual event where CARA and all its stakeholders come together to raise awareness about the legal process of adoption. 

Context

• Celebrated by: Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) and the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
• When: November 2024.
• Theme: “Rehabilitation of Older Children through Foster Care and Foster Adoption.”
• Purpose: To raise awareness about legal adoption, foster care, and the rehabilitation of older children in India.

Objectives

• Promote Legal Adoptions:
  • Create awareness about the legal framework and processes for adoption.
  • Encourage prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) to adopt older children or children with special needs.
• Foster Care Focus:
  • Highlight the importance of foster care as a rehabilitative measure for older children.
• Public Engagement:
  • Engage various stakeholders, including adoptive families, PAPs, older adoptees, and the general public, to share experiences and insights.

Key Activities

• Nationwide Campaigns:
  • Offline events in states like Ladakh, Assam, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and West Bengal.
  • Mega event in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on November 21, 2024.
• Online Initiatives (via MyGov India):
  • Storytelling, poster making, slogan writing, pledges, and online surveys.
  • Informative content on adoption and foster care shared via social media.
• Interactive Engagements:
  • Cultural programs, competitions, Q&A sessions with PAPs, and discussions with stakeholders.
  • Sharing of experiences by older adoptees and adoptive parents.

Significance of Adoption Awareness Month

• Focus on Older Children:
  • Addresses challenges faced by older children in finding permanent families.
  • Promotes inclusive adoption practices for children with special needs or in foster care.
• Stakeholder Involvement:
  • Builds trust and awareness by sharing real-life adoption experiences.
  • Encourages societal participation in the rehabilitation of vulnerable children.
• Policy Awareness:
  • Educates the public about the legal adoption process under CARA.
  • Highlights the benefits and responsibilities of foster care and adoption.

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)

• Role: Apex body for regulating adoption in India under the MWCD.
• Key Function: Ensures legal, ethical, and transparent adoption processes for orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children.

Challenges in Adoption and Foster Care

• Limited awareness about adopting older children or children with special needs.
• Cultural and societal barriers.
• Complexities in the legal adoption process.

Way Forward

• Streamlining Processes: Simplify legal procedures to make adoption and foster care accessible.
• Increased Awareness: Continued campaigns to reduce stigma and misinformation about adoption.
• Policy Support: Strengthen programs for foster care and ensure periodic evaluation of their impact.

In News:

• The 21st India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting was held from November 5 to 6, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The meeting focused on strengthening defence ties between India and the US, covering a wide range of topics aimed at improving military cooperation.

Key Areas of Discussion

• Capacity Building: The meeting discussed initiatives for enhancing defence capacity through training exchanges, joint exercises, and sharing best practices.
• Defence Industrial Cooperation: Both countries explored opportunities for collaborative defence industrial ventures and technology sharing.
• Joint Exercises: The advancement of joint military exercises was highlighted to boost readiness against both conventional and hybrid threats.
• Strategic Objectives: The meeting aimed to enhance interoperability between the two countries' armed forces, enabling more effective joint operations.

Commitment to Strengthen Indo-US Defence Ties

• Strategic Partnership: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Indo-US defence partnership, recognizing the shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Focus on Regional Security: The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring regional security and global stability in the face of emerging threats.

The Role of the MCG

• Purpose: The MCG forum serves as a key platform for enhancing strategic and operational defence collaboration between India and the US.
• Long-term Goals: The MCG aims to build mutual defence capabilities, counter emerging threats, and ensure the security of both nations and the wider region.

In News:

• The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India recently visited Algeria, culminating in the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation.
• Objective: The MoU aims to strengthen the strategic and military ties between India and Algeria.

Recent Developments in India-Algeria Relations

• Important Visit: The CDS’s visit coincided with Algeria’s 70th anniversary of its revolution, celebrated on November 1st, with military parades and ceremonies highlighting Algeria’s historical and political legacy.
• Defence Cooperation:
  • India re-established its defence wing in Algeria, and Algeria reciprocated by considering the establishment of its defence wing in India.
  • India emphasized its role as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (global partner) and offered to share defence expertise and experiences with Algeria.
• Strategic Discussion: The MoU aims to enhance mutual understanding, laying the foundation for long-term defence collaboration across multiple sectors, including manufacturing under India’s 'Make in India' and 'Make for the World' initiatives.
• Global Peace Support: CDS reiterated India’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and expressed support for Algeria’s defence interests.

Significant Areas of India-Algeria Relationship

• Diplomatic Relations:
  • India and Algeria established diplomatic ties in July 1962, the same year Algeria gained independence from French colonial rule.
  • India supported Algeria's liberation movement and both countries have maintained close ties as part of the Non-Aligned Movement.
• Bilateral Trade:
  • Trade peaked at USD 2.9 billion in 2018 but dropped to USD 1.5 billion by 2021 due to COVID-19 and Algeria’s import restrictions.
  • Trade rebounded in 2022, increasing by 24% to USD 2.1 billion.
  • Exports from India (2023-24): Rice, pharmaceuticals, granite.
  • Imports from Algeria: Petroleum oils, LNG, calcium phosphates.
• Bilateral Agreements:
  • 2015 MoU: Between All India Radio (AIR) and Algerian National Radio for cooperation in broadcasting.
  • 2018 Space Cooperation Agreement: Focuses on satellite technology for applications like crop forecasting and disaster management.
  • Visa Waiver Agreement (2021): Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from visa requirements.
• Cultural Engagement:
  • International Day of Yoga (2024): Celebrated in Algeria at the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, attracting over 300 participants.
• Space Cooperation:
  • The 2018 India-Algeria Space Cooperation Agreement focuses on joint space science, technology, and applications.
  • India has launched four Algerian satellites (2016), and the 2022 Joint Committee Meeting expanded satellite capacity building efforts.
  • Algeria’s space agency has engaged with ISRO on satellite applications like crop forecasting and disaster management.
• Indian Community in Algeria:
  • Approximately 3,800 Indians live in Algeria, working in various sectors, including technical and semi-skilled roles.
  • The community includes 13 Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), 10 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and 15 Indian students.

In News:

The U.S. Army is scheduled to test launch a Minuteman III ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile) after the closure of voting on Election Day.

Missile Features

• Speed: Hypersonic, capable of reaching speeds up to 15,000 mph (Mach 23).
• Range: 13,000 km.
• Payload: Currently carries one nuclear warhead (as per arms control agreements with Russia), but originally designed for multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs).
• Launch Time: Extremely fast, enabling near-instant global retaliation capabilities.
• Testing Reliability: Nearly 100% success rate in tests, with backup airborne launch controllers to ensure continuity of the retaliatory strike capability.
• Length: 18.2 meters.
• Diameter: 1.85 meters.
• Launch Weight: 34,467 kg.
• Type: Three-stage, solid-fuel missile.

Strategic Significance

• Land-Based Nuclear Deterrent: The Minuteman III is a key component of the U.S. nuclear triad, which includes land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The Sentinel weapon system (modernized Minuteman III) is viewed as the most cost-effective option for maintaining the land-based leg of U.S. nuclear deterrence until the planned Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) system replaces it in 2029.
• Global Reach: The missile can strike any target worldwide within minutes, demonstrating U.S. nuclear reach and power projection.

In News:

• The Tumaini Festival is held annually in the Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi, one of the world’s few music festivals hosted within a refugee camp. It brings together refugees and locals for cultural exchange, showcasing music, art, and crafts.
  • Dates: The festival runs from Thursday to Saturday each year, typically in November.
  • Founded: In 2014 by Congolese poet Menes La Plume.

Festival Highlights:

• The festival features performances from a diverse range of artists, including refugees and local Malawians, as well as artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and beyond.
• In 2024, performances included Jetu, a 72-year-old singer, and Vankson Boy V, a Congolese refugee, alongside other acts like Maveriq Mavo from South Africa.
• The festival aims to:
  • Celebrate cultural exchange and community solidarity between refugees and locals.
  • Humanize the refugee experience by allowing refugees and locals to share common experiences and celebrate cultural diversity.
  • Challenge stereotypes by showing refugees as people with the same aspirations, talents, and desires as locals.

Significance of Dzaleka Refugee Camp:

• Location: Situated near Lilongwe, Malawi, Dzaleka was originally a prison before becoming a refugee camp in 1994.
• Capacity: Initially designed for 10,000 refugees, the camp now hosts over 60,000 individuals from countries like Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
• Role: Dzaleka has evolved into a hub for humanitarian aid, cultural exchange, and empowerment of its residents.